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On-duty RSPCA inspector returns to van to find windscreen smashed

An RSPCA officer arrived to their van after tending to horse welfare issues – only to find their windscreen had been smashed in broad daylight.

RSPCA inspector Christine McNeil returned to her van on Wentloog Avenue in Cardiff, last Thursday (7 February), to find the act of vandalism had been committed. The windscreen was smashed between 5pm and 5.30pm.

The animal welfare charity say the incident underlines the “challenging, difficult conditions and circumstances” which they face while on the frontline for animals.

Sadly, the incident also meant Inspector McNeil had to spend time off the road – and away from helping animals – as her van was not drive-able.

Anyone with information in relation to the smashed windscreen is urged to call police on 101, quoting occurrence number 1900046957.

RSPCA inspector Christine McNeil said: “This was very frustrating. We have a very small band of frontline officers in Wales; and acts of vandalism like this put us off the road.

“I was in a field with a local veterinarian responding to an equine welfare emergency. Meanwhile, in broad daylight, someone decides to smash my windscreen.

“This happened on a busy road in east Cardiff, at rush hour – so we’re sure someone will have seen something, last Thursday (7 February). Anyone with information is urged to please contact the Police on 101.

“Sadly, this highlights the challenging, difficult conditions and circumstances we face every day in keeping animals safe. Some people don’t like what we do and try and disrupt us, but we won’t be deterred in working for Wales’ animals right around the clock.”